Hi. I’m Bill Fuller. I founded HikingBill.com in 2007 as a resource and incentive for those interested in exploring the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Most of my posts focus on adventures in western North Carolina, eastern Tenneseee, and southwest Virginia, but at times I write on other areas of our beautiful country that I have visited.
I feel very fortunate to live within a half-mile of the Appalachian Trail in the mountains of Tennessee. This gives me convenience to pursue my passions, which includes hiking, backpacking, trail running, and landscape photography.
My goals for this site are three-fold:
1. To inspire outdoor adventures in our area.
I’m often amazed at how many people who live in our region never see the mountains from within. We are so fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the county, and the adventures are limitless. We have numerous trail systems with amazing waterfalls, stunning vistas, unique rock formations, and historical sites hidden in the forests… not to mention the Appalachian Trail. I hope to provide detailed planning, directions, ideas, and safety information to make that happen for you.
2. To promote healthy activities.
Clearly, we all need to be more active for health purposes. If you want to lose weight, increase your cardiovascular fitness, and/or simply need a variation from your local park or gym, then the mountains are calling for you. Studies have also shown that a walk in the woods also reduces stress and increases your mental well-being. Find your secluded mountain stream, and you’ll see what I mean.
3. To promote environmental awareness.
I believe for our long-term sustainability we need to protect our environment and our planet. Getting people outside and having positive experiences in nature will hopefully help them to engage in more pro-environmental actions. Outside activities, especially with our children, have also declined. I think we need to enable the next generation to be good stewards of the environment. So get out and hike! Make it a family affair. Experience nature first hand, and assist our young people to find an appreciation and awareness for nature and our ecosystems.
Feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, or suggestions!
Sincerely,
Bill